Part A
AM26C31CDR
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 5213 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-16
- Series
- Interface - Condutores, Receptores, Transceivers
Replacement verdict
Not a drop-in replacement
The AM26C31CDR and AM26C32IDRE4 are not functionally interchangeable: the AM26C31CDR is a quad differential line driver, while the AM26C32IDRE4 is a quad differential line receiver. Although both are RS-422/RS-485 interface devices in SOIC-16 packages, their opposing signal directions and different I/O structures make direct substitution impossible without redesigning the interface.
Different device function
Different signal direction
Different I/O structure
Different interface role
Parts at a glance
Part B
AM26C32IDRE4
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 7619 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-16
- Series
- Interface - Condutores, Receptores, Transceivers
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | AM26C31CDR | AM26C32IDRE4 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function | Quadruple differential line driver | Quadruple differential line receiver | A driver and a receiver serve opposite roles in a differential link; they are not direct substitutes for the same board position. |
| Number of Drivers | 4 | 0 | The driver count determines how many differential output channels are available for transmitting signals. |
| Number of Receivers | 0 | 4 | The receiver count determines how many differential input channels can be accepted from a bus or cable. |
| Supply Voltage (Typical) | 5 V | 5 V | Both parts operate from the same nominal 5 V rail, simplifying power-supply design in mixed driver/receiver systems. |
| Interface Standard | RS-422 / RS-485 compatible differential | RS-422 / RS-485 compatible differential | Matching the interface standard ensures the driver and receiver can interoperate on the same differential bus. |
| Package | SOIC-16 (D) | SOIC-16 (D) | Identical package and pin count allow both parts to use the same PCB footprint and assembly process. |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount | Consistent mounting type supports the same reflow assembly flow for both devices. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 °C to 85 °C | -40 °C to 85 °C | The temperature range confirms both parts are rated for the same industrial environment, though the suffix indicates the grade. |
| Output / Input Type | Tri-state differential outputs | Tri-state differential inputs with enable | Tri-state capability allows bus sharing, but the direction of the tri-state (output vs input) differs between driver and receiver. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | AM26C31CDR | AM26C32IDRE4 |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier | - | Texas Instruments |
| Part Status | Active | Discontinued at Digi-Key |
| Type | Driver | Receiver |
| Protocol | - | RS422, RS423 |
| Number of Drivers/Receivers | 4/0 | 0/4 |
| Receiver Hysteresis | - | 60 mV |
| Voltage - Supply | 4.5V ~ 5.5V | 4.5V ~ 5.5V |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C ~ 70°C | -40°C ~ 85°C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount |
Frequently asked questions
What are the AM26C31CDR and AM26C32IDRE4?
The AM26C31CDR is a quad differential line driver from Texas Instruments in an SOIC-16 package, while the AM26C32IDRE4 is a quad differential line receiver from Texas Instruments in an SOIC-16 package. They are complementary devices intended for balanced multipoint bus transmission, with the driver transmitting and the receiver receiving RS-422/RS-485-style differential signals.
Can the AM26C31CDR and AM26C32IDRE4 be used together in the same system?
Yes. The AM26C31CDR driver and AM26C32IDRE4 receiver are designed to operate together on a balanced differential bus. The driver converts single-ended logic inputs to differential outputs, and the receiver converts differential bus signals back to single-ended logic levels, making them a matched driver/receiver pair for multipoint data transmission.
What is the key functional difference between the AM26C31CDR and AM26C32IDRE4?
The AM26C31CDR is a line driver with differential outputs and a tri-state enable, while the AM26C32IDRE4 is a line receiver with differential inputs and a tri-state output. The driver is used to transmit signals onto the bus, and the receiver is used to receive signals from the bus; they are not interchangeable because their input/output functions are opposite.
Do the AM26C31CDR and AM26C32IDRE4 share the same package and pin count?
Both devices are offered in a 16-pin SOIC package (SOIC-16), and both are supplied in tape-and-reel packaging as indicated by the DR suffix. However, the pin functions differ because one is a driver and the other is a receiver, so the PCB layout and signal assignments must be designed accordingly.
What supply voltage do the AM26C31CDR and AM26C32IDRE4 require?
Both the AM26C31CDR and AM26C32IDRE4 operate from a single 5 V supply, consistent with the standard AM26C31/AM26C32 family specifications. Designers should confirm the exact recommended operating conditions in the respective Texas Instruments datasheets before finalizing the power supply design.
Are the AM26C31CDR and AM26C32IDRE4 suitable for RS-422 and RS-485 applications?
Yes. The AM26C31 driver and AM26C32 receiver are commonly used in balanced differential data transmission applications compatible with RS-422 and RS-485 signaling. The driver provides differential outputs, and the receiver provides differential inputs with high input impedance, supporting multipoint bus configurations when used within the datasheet-specified operating conditions.
What does the "E4" suffix mean on the AM26C32IDRE4 compared to the AM26C31CDR?
The "E4" suffix on the AM26C32IDRE4 is a Texas Instruments ordering suffix associated with lead-free (RoHS-compliant) packaging and tape-and-reel delivery. The AM26C31CDR also uses the DR tape-and-reel suffix; buyers should verify the exact environmental and packaging status of each orderable part number against the manufacturer's datasheet and product page.
Can the AM26C31CDR be replaced by the AM26C32IDRE4, or vice versa?
No. The AM26C31CDR is a driver and the AM26C32IDRE4 is a receiver, so they perform opposite functions and cannot be substituted for one another. A direct replacement would require a device of the same function, package, pinout, and electrical specifications, verified against the manufacturer datasheet.